Having worn the OMM Kamleika for over 10 years it had started to show significant signs of wear and it was time for a change. Rather than upgrade to the newer version I chanced upon the OMM Halo Jacket at a price that was too good to pass up.
Tec and Spec
What the OMM say
"An ultra lightweight and breathable waterproof jacket that packs down to little more than the size of a tennis ball. Ideally suited to mixed conditions, when waterproofs are carried as much as worn. Though lightweight, the Halo+ Jacket is still a capable mountain shell; with fully taped seams, breathable 2 layer waterproof fabric and fitted closures. The addition of two zippered hand pockets adds flexibility to stash essentials on the move."
Point ZeroH20 fabric
Breathability 10,000g/m2
Hydrostatic head 10,000mm
Minimal taped seams
Peaked hood
Full length YKK Aquaguard zip
Two zippered hand pockets
Reflective logos
Extended cuff & thumb slots
Dynamic Droptail
Fabric PointZero H20
Full Weight 130g
First Impression
The first thing you notice when picking up the jacket is how light it actually feels,
as for packability the Halo packs smaller than my old Kamleika and stuffs down to the size of a tennis ball. All this translates well when actually wearing it and is ideal for long Ultras where a waterproof jacket is on the compulsory kit list even if not needed.
The zip comes up nice and high in the front, combining with the peaked hood offers a lot of protection to the head and face by creating a decent seal and not allow rain or water sneak in.
A feature that I really like is the extended cuff, thumb loop and reinforced area over the knuckles allowing you to keep the majority of your hand protected while still leaving your fingers free.
Having used this out in the rain in South Wales, it has stood up to the weather well and certainly good enough of a day of fell running around the Brecon Beacons in the rain with a good level of breathability when working. This is generally a good barometer for how good a waterproof jacket really is.
The majority of my jackets are a small and the OMM Halo fits true to size with an athletic cut that is not constricting.
Final Thoughts
I have been more than impressed by the OMM Halo. Full price it retails for £140.00 and if it lasts as long as my old Kamleika it will end up costing £14.00 a year which is not a bad return on investment for a product that can keep you dry in the rain. Although the spec is not as good as the Kamleika I cannot see me upgrading to it as the Halo currently ticks all the right boxes.
If looking for a waterproof running jacket that does the job I'd certainly consider the OMM Halo. As of now it is the jacket that I will be packing for my 2022 races the UTS100 and the UTMB.